Archive for May, 2021

Sheriff urges driver safety over Memorial Day weekend

Granville County Sheriff Charles R. Noblin, Jr. reminds everyone to “Drive Smart” this holiday weekend.

“Memorial Day weekend is one of the most dangerous driving weekends of the year,” Sheriff Noblin noted. “We encourage all of our residents to do their part to save lives on our highways.”

The National Sheriff’s Association has partnered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and award-winning country music performer Toby Keith in the release of a public service announcement encouraging driving safety. This  message offers a reminder to:

• * Buckle up;
• * Slow down;
• * Drive sober; and
• * Focus on driving.

“I would also like to remind all drivers to practice the ‘Golden Rule’ when driving,” Sheriff Noblin added. “Be courteous and tolerant of other drivers. Let’s make this Memorial Day weekend a safe one on our roads.”

To view the public service announcement provided by the National Sheriff’s Association, please click here.

Computers donated to new South Granville Senior Center

Two desktop computer systems, complete with monitors, keyboards and software,  were recently donated to the South Granville Senior Center. The contribution by T&T Creative Group, a digital marketing company in Raleigh, was presented to Senior Services Director Kathy May and South Granville Senior Center Coordinator Cheryl Carrier on May 20 after a tour of the new Creedmoor facility.

Derrick Thompson, founder of T&T Creative Group, noted that this donation was directly in line with the company’s mission to “bridge the technology gap that currently exists with far too many seniors.”

“As the world becomes more technology driven, our seniors who do not have certain benefits will be left behind,” Thompson said. “This partnership with the Senior Center enables us to continue to give back to our community, which is something that is near and dear to our hearts.”

The computers will be used to teach seniors how to set up email accounts, use the internet for tasks such as accessing health records and ordering medications, and for other needs. Classes will also be offered to help improve basic computer skills for the age 60+ population. An added bonus is that the new computer systems – as well as two Chromebooks included in the donation – will be available to seniors who may not have access to technology at home.

Creedmoor Commissioner Kechia Brustmeyer-Brown was instrumental in connecting Thompson with the South Granville Senior Center.

“Granville County Senior Services provides a sense of community, overall health and independence for senior adults,” the Commissioner said. “This donation will enable our seniors to gain simple, yet critical, technology skills. We can’t thank T&T Creative Group enough for their donation.”

The South Granville Senior Center is located at the newly-constructed Creedmoor Community Center, 144 Douglas Drive in Creedmoor. For more information about Granville County Senior Services, please contact Senior Services Director Kathy May at 919-693-1930 or at kathy.may@granvillecounty.org.

(Pictured is Senior Services Director Kathy May, Granville County Assistant County Manager Korena Weichel, Derrick Thompson of T&T Creative Group, Creedmoor Commissioner Keisha Brustmeyer-Brown, South Granville Senior Center Coordinator Cheryl Carrier, and City of Creedmoor Recreation/Event Coordinator Angie Perry. The new Creedmoor Community Center, home to the South Granville Senior Center, is located at 144 Douglas Drive.)

Blackburn receives Governor’s Medallion Award

The Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service has been presented to Roxanne Blackburn, Volunteer Animal Rescue Coordinator, for her work with Granville County Animal Services.

Nominated by Matthew Katz, Granville County’s Animal Services Director, Blackburn serves as the main contact for shelter animal rescue groups, as well as assisting with fundraising efforts, rabies clinics, adoption events and kitten foster training. In addition, she monitors and manages a Facebook page for “Granville County Animal Shelter Friends,” which includes pet adoptions, rescues, and efforts to re-unite lost and found pets with their owners. Her volunteer hours include working at the Shelter five to six days each week, answering e-mails for two to three hours each evening, and working with animal rescue groups after normal operating hours.

“Roxanne brings passion, professionalism and a strong work ethic as the Volunteer Rescue Coordinator for Granville County Animal Control,” Katz remarked. “Due to her tireless efforts, more than 1,100 dogs and cats were placed with rescue groups in 2020.”

The N.C. Commission implemented the Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service to recognize the “top 20” volunteers in the state. Medallion recipients are nominated at the county level, and are then evaluated by a panel of community service leaders from across North Carolina. Blackburn is among a distinguished group of eight (8) Granville County volunteers who have previously been honored with the Medallion Award. 

A traditional awards ceremony is typically held at the State Capitol to recognize recipients of the Governor’s Medallion Award; however, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the awards were presented virtually on May 12.

Locally, Blackburn will be recognized at the Granville County Board of Commissioners meeting on June 21. She is pictured here with Matt Katz and one of the many animals she advocates for at the Shelter. 

Weather conditions increase risk of wildfires in our area

N.C. Forest Service officials urge the public to postpone any outdoor burning through early June. As drier weather patterns continue across the state, fire danger will be high, and in some cases extreme.

“As our state continues to dry out and heat up, we need every North Carolinian to be mindful of fire danger and the increased risk of wildfire due to this warm, dry weather,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Check local ordinances and alerts so that you remain aware of any local and state burning restrictions that are in effect or that may become effective in the coming days.”

More wildfires have occurred in North Carolina during 2021 than in all of 2020.

“Last year, we had about 2,300 wildfires across the state, and this year, we’ve already exceeded that number by more than 200 wildfires,” said David Lane, state forester with the N.C. Forest Service. “We started the month of May with 72 wildfires occurring just one day after the National Weather Service had issued a red flag warning for most of North Carolina. We’re in spring wildfire season right now, a time when conditions are more favorable for wildfire and rapid spread. The warm, dry weather pattern at play amplifies risk. We must take extra precautions to protect our wildland urban interface, those residential and developed areas where forestland mingles with homes and people.”

The N.C. Forest Service offers the following guidelines and tips to help prevent wildfires:

• * If you choose to burn, check local burning laws first. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours. Others forbid it;
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• * Make sure you have a valid permit, if one is required. You can obtain a burn permit at any open authorized permitting agent or online at ncforestservice.gov/burnpermit;
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• * Stay informed about the weather and possible weather Postpone outdoor burning during high winds or gusts, or periods of low relative humidity. Even if you have a valid permit, stop burning if strong winds develop;
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• * Don’t park vehicles on tall dry grass or A vehicle’s undercarriage is hot and can start a wildfire.
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Allowing a fire to escape or causing a fire can result in criminal penalty and possible civil action for any damages.

To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and property damage or loss, visit www.ncforestservice.gov. For more information on actions you can take to protect your home and property, contact Granville County Forest Ranger Rob Montague at (919) 693-3154 (rob.montague@ncagr.gov) or visit www.resistwildfirenc.org 

Proclamation issued in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day

Granville County Commissioners recently issued a proclamation designating May 15, 2021  as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The observance, which falls during National Police Week each year, recognizes the vital role of law enforcement officers and remembers those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

The proclamation was issued on May 11 at the Granville County Expo and Convention Center, with representatives of the Granville County Sheriff’s Office, the Oxford Police Department, the Creedmoor Police Department, the Stovall Police Department and the Stem Police Department in attendance. Officers of Butner Public Safety were honored at a later date. 

The proclamation reads as follows:

Proclamation Designating May 15, 2021 as Peace Officers Memorial Day

WHEREAS, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. This date falls within National Police Week, May 9-15, 2021, and recognizes our law enforcement officers and remembers those Peace Officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, the Granville County Board of Commissioners supports and recognizes the vital role law enforcement officers have within our communities and county. These servants and their families make enormous personal sacrifices but have answered their community’s call to serve; and

WHEREAS, those who pursue such a profession understand that it comes with inherit danger and at any given time they may have to place themselves in harm’s way to secure the well-being of others…. often strangers. This year alone over 119 law enforcement officers across our nation have died in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, most recently, two Sheriff’s Deputies from Watauga County lost their lives while conducting a health and welfare check. Upon entry into a home, they were met by gunfire and were both fatally wounded. The loss of any innocent life is one too many and the loss of a law enforcement officer should cause all citizens to be sickened. They are our protectors and represent what is good within society. They go to a destination, knowing there is danger, but they go on our behalf and for this they are extraordinary servants…. for many of us would never tread where they must go; and

WHEREAS, being a law enforcement officer is a noble and honorable profession. It is a profession which many cannot do or will never attempt due to the rigors of the profession. Law enforcement officers must be highly trained and appropriately resourced to meet the challenges of today. This board has already taken a significant step on behalf of the citizens of Granville County by commissioning a new law enforcement center and will continue to appropriately resource the Sheriff’s Office to meet the growing needs of our county; and

WHEREAS, as we state our support for our law enforcement officers, they know, and it is expected they daily build relationships and trust with the residents they serve, they must do so with honor and integrity. Daily protecting the innocent, aiding those in need with dignity and compassion, and performing their duties in a fair and impartial manner. They must perform their duties in keeping with the highest law enforcement standards and remain faithful to their solemn oath;  

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the Granville County Board of Commissioners remember and honor those Peace Officers who have fallen in the line of duty and recognize our support for our Granville County Sheriff’s Office and Deputies, Municipality Police Departments and Officers, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Troopers and our other state and federal partners.

This the 11th day of May 2021.

Notice of Public Hearing, scheduled for June 7 at Expo Center

All interested persons please take notice that a public hearing will be held by the Granville County Board of Commissioners pursuant to N.C.G.S. 158-7.1 on June 7, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. or shortly thereafter in the auditorium of the Granville County Expo and Convention Center, located at 4185 US Hwy 15 South, Oxford, North Carolina.

The purpose of the public hearing is to hear the views of the public on aiding and encouraging the location or expansion of industrial facilities in Granville County, Project Home, specifically as follows: a relocation and expansion of existing manufacturing company to Granville County. The company will invest approximately $2.1 million and will create 147 new jobs over three years and up to 500 by 2026. The maximum cost of the County-funded improvements will be up to $200,000 in accordance with the County’s funding policy to serve as the 50% match towards the $400,000 One NC Grant awarded by The North Carolina Department of Commerce.

This project will be funded with general County operating funds. The cost to the County of the County-funded capital improvements will be offset by new tax revenues generated by the company’s capital investment in the project over a period not to exceed five years.

The public benefits to be derived from the making of these improvements include the development of industrial properties which will increase the County’s tax base to better provide for County services, and to increase employment opportunities within the County.

All interested citizens are invited and urged to attend.

Debra A. Weary
Clerk to the Granville County Board of Commissioners

Collection numbers reported for Annual Spring Clean Out

The annual Spring Clean Out and Collection Event, held May 15 at the Granville County Expo and Convention Center, resulted in more than 22,000 pounds of materials collected for recycling and proper disposal. Event organizer Teresa Baker, who serves as Recycling and Sustainability Coordinator for Granville County and Granville County Public Schools, reported the following collections:

• * Shredded paper: 5,460 pounds
• * Latex paint: 5,000 pounds (6 pallets)
• * Electronics: 4,132 pounds
• * Oil-based paint: 2,000 pounds
• * Books: 1,720 pounds
• * Pesticides: 1,624 pounds
• * Toxic compounds: 1,000 pounds
• * Flammable compounds: 1,000 pounds
• * Aerosols: 420 pounds
• * Fluorescent lamps: 150 pounds
• * Outdated prescriptions: 110 pounds
• * Ammunition: 25 pounds
• * Mercury devices: 5 pounds
• * Polystyrene: 1,000 pieces
• * Car/vehicle batteries: 30
• * Household batteries: Three (3) five-gallon buckets
• * Power tool batteries: One (1) pallet

“These numbers reflect thousands of pounds of materials that will not be harming our environment,” Baker said. “Thanks to the vendors who were on site, the many volunteers who came to help, and all the residents who participated by bringing items to the Expo Center. We look forward to seeing everyone for the next recycle and collection event!”

Vendors on site for the drive-through event included Veolia, Shred Ace, RMR Recycling, the N.C. Department of Agriculture/Pesticides Division, Recency Technologies, DART Containers, the Granville County Sheriff’s Office and Interstate Batteries.

The Humane Society of Granville County was also on hand and reported the collection of pet crates, dog beds, towels, sheets, dog/cat food, pet toys and treats.

The Fall Clean Out is scheduled at the Expo and Convention Center during the month of November. Please look for additional details as they are announced.

Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards presented for 2020

The Granville County Board of Commissioners recognized the 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards recipients for Granville County during their May 17 meeting. The three recipients –  Laurel Scoritino, Rev. Frank Sossamon, and Creative Civitans – were presented with a pin and letter of appreciation signed by Governor Roy Cooper.

Granville County Commissioners also honored each recipient with a Resolution of Recognition and Appreciation.

Laurel Scoritino, nominated by Board of Commissioners Chair Sue Hinman, was recognized for her work with Area Congregations in Ministry (ACIM), the local food bank. For the past seven (7) years, Scoritino has served as the receptionist, greeting clients with respect and dignity. The nomination for this award noted that “receptionist” was a “loose term” for the many roles Scoritino fills in a three-day workweek as she serves with compassion for others in the community.

Pastor Frank Sossamon was nominated by Commissioner David Smith for his work as President of Granville County Crime Stoppers. While living and working in an adjacent county, Pastor Sossamon helped coordinate and ensure the success of special events in Granville County, including “United We Sing,” the annual golf tournament, a dinner theatre and an annual banquet. Under Sossamon’s leadership, the Crime Stoppers organization has grown in membership as his tireless work has brought people together in support of a safer community.

Creative Civitans of Durham was recognized for their service to Murdoch Developmental Center (MDC) for the past 20 years. The organization, represented by Donna Monzon and Holly Eggleston, has sponsored special events such as Easter Egg Hunts, parties, dances and concerts, as well as providing support for Operation Santa Claus. Through their volunteer service, the Creative Civitans have made a difference in the lives of the people they serve. 

Presentation of awards to these recipients had been delayed for the past year, due to COVID-19, and was rescheduled for an in-person recognition during the May 17, 2021 meeting.

The Governor’s Volunteer Service Award honors the true spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals, groups and businesses that make a significant contribution to their community through volunteer service. To learn more about these awards, please click here.

County Administration, Human Resources offices relocate

Granville County Government’s Administration and Human Resources offices have relocated and are now operating from 104 Belle Street in Oxford. The move from 141 Williamsboro Street is part of a transition plan to address changing needs and the impacts of population growth on county services.

The new location, which remains central to other county properties, includes office space for the County Manager, Assistant County Manager, Clerk to the Board/Executive Assistant to the County Manager, Deputy Clerk, Human Resources Director, Human Resources Specialist and Public Information Officer/Grants Coordinator. An office and meeting room is also available on site for the Granville County Board of Commissioners.

“The mission of Granville County is to provide its residents with an array of services to enhance their quality of life through a responsive, effective and efficient local government,” said Granville County Manager Michael Felts. “This office transition, as well as other recent office moves, has been made to achieve this mission while preparing for future service needs of our growing community.”

The reassessment of county facilities is the result of a 2010 space needs study which identified a need to better utilize available space and to plan for future expansions. Recommendations from that report have led to the relocation of the N.C. Cooperative Extension office (2017) and the office of the Board of Elections (2018), as well as new construction for the Granville County Animal Shelter and a Law Enforcement Center (2020). Relocating the County Administration and Human Resources offices enables transitions of county services to continue as the county grows.

“County Administration is reviewing several options for the former Administration and Human Resources Offices,” Felts noted. “Once final decisions are made, we will begin taking steps to transition other county services into the available space.”

The Finance Department and the Tax Administration Office will continue to operate from 141 Williamsboro Street.

All mail for the County Manager/Administration staff and for the Human Resources office should continue to be sent to PO Box 906, Oxford, NC 27565. Phone numbers and email addresses will remain the same.

Any questions about the relocation may be made by calling 919-693-5240.

Granville County Commissioners to meet May 17

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING: The Granville County Board of Commissioners will meet at the Granville Expo and Convention Center, 4185 Highway 15, Oxford, NC on Monday, May 17, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. for the regular scheduled meeting.

This will be an in-person meeting. Any questions should be directed to Debra Weary, Clerk to the Board, at 919-603-1307 or debra.weary@granvillecounty.org. 

To view the agenda, please click here.